Reviewer's Choice

Earth is a varied planet with countless species of plant and we're finding new species everyday.
The collaborative work of Walter von Erhardt, Rich Gotz, Nils Bodeker, and Siegmund Seybold,
"The Timber Press Dictionary of Plant Names: Entries For More Than 20,000 Plants" is a guide
to the countless plant names all over the world with a bit of information on each of them,
including their names in many major languages as well as their location, toxicity, season, and
more. A strong resource in helping to classify plants, "The Timber Press Dictionary of Plant
Names" is something for every botanical studies bookshelf.

To understand men, you don't have to be one. "Why Do I Have to Think Like a Man?: How to
Think Like a Lady and Still Get the Man" is a relationship guide from Shanae Hall on finding the
right man for you in today's world where it isn't all about the man, Hall writes her book as a retort
to Comedian Steve Harvey's famous "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man". A thoughtful and
humorous read that will prove useful as well as entertaining, "Why Do I Have to Think Like a
Man?" is highly recommended.

The Fiction Shelf

The protection of parents for the first few decades of life is all too often taken for granted. "Max
and Menna" tells the story of two lost children who only have each other for support. Abandoned
and lost, Max and Menna struggle to survive and learn more than the value of companionship
even in self-reliance. "Max and Menna" a charming and riveting read, recommended.

The quiet southern town is quickly fading away. "The Ghost of Bud Parrott" is set primarily in
the town of the quiet in Arkansas in the 1950s. Following Bud Parrott, a black man looking for
something better in his life, as he travels through the south on the eve of the racial unrest in the
United States. A fun and adventurous read of a time gone past, "The Ghost of Bud Parrott" is
quite the read, a solid addition to any fiction collection, highly recommended.

Last of a long line of witches, there is much to be feared by Carty. "Montooth and the Canfield
Witch" tells the story of Carty Andersson, a young girl who discovers the witch in a swamp
during the 1950s. The Crew, Carty's band of friends, look towards the witches house with
curiosity. A fun and adventurous read that should resonate with modern readers in spite of the
setting, "Montooth and the Canfield Witch" is a read that shouldn't be overlooked, highly
recommended.

The student teacher relation is often romanticized but at the same time taboo. "Soul Mate" tells
the story of Lance and Claudia, a student and teacher who go down the road of this forbidden
relationship. Facing the world that shuns them, their romance comes along against it all with an
assortment of unique and entertaining characters, "Soul Mate" is a read that shouldn't be
overlooked.

The book of Revelation causes a rift with some Biblical scholars. "Revelation: The Way it
Happened" is a novel on the writings of the John of Revelations, writing in the first century AD,
looking to provide insight into the lives of the earliest Christians and what mattered to them in a
world that shunned them and the principles that Christians most held dear. Drawing on history
and Revelations alike, "Revelations" is a well researched and thoughtful read that definitely
should not be overlooked.

No secret remains secret forever. "Testarossa" tells of transplant New Yorker into the LAPD
John Testarossa who in his service to the LAPD has become quite familiar with death. On the
case for another murder, he finds that he's not the only one with secrets and theirs plenty on top
of it all to worry about. With love spilling into his latest case, he may find that there is more in
the line than ever in bringing justice. "Testarossa" is an exciting thriller that will prove very hard
to put down for many readers.

Vampires are a staple of literature, but Janice Eidus takes them in a whole other direction. "The
Last Jewish Virgin" tells the story of Lilith Zeremba, a young Jewish woman seeking her own
way through life, and finds herself drawn between two men. Eidus twists the vampire mythos for
her story and brings a new collection of thought and opinion to the table for a very different read.
"The Last Jewish Virgin" is an intriguing read that will prove hard to put down with its
originality.

High heels aren't the best choice for solving crime, but these ladies make it work. "Drop Dead
Divas" follows Trinket, Bitty, and their close friends as their fashion and love of the Diva life
seems to slam them into another murder mystery. With a good bit of humor blended in with the
mystery and adventure, "Drop Dead Divas" is a charming and highly entertaining read that will
be good for hours of fun.

The call of adventure can strike at any time. "The Lost Lagoon" is charming story of the flood of
the Running River in Spring, where Tiptoes, Jeremy, and Greenleaf embark on an adventure into
the Lost Lagoon. They meet plenty of characters along the way, and make for a fun read for
younger readers. With an assortment of illustrations spread throughout, "The Lost Lagoon" is a
fun and recommended pick for younger readers.

As an eccentric with love of freedom of expression, it can be hard to find one who understands
you for you. "Swimming with Wings" follows Lark Jennison, free spirit in the 1970s. Finding
someone she describes as a river gypsy in Peter Roma, she may have found romance and a whole
new world on top of her own. Exciting reading with a strong dose of new age, "Swimming with
Wings" is a choice read and solidly recommended.

Understanding the self is the key to understanding others. "Personal Wisdom: Making Sense of
You, Others, and the Meaning of Life" is an advice manual to help readers gain a better
understanding of the self and its value for understanding others and the world around them.
Reminding the reader than the world isn't fair and encouraging them to continue pushing for their
dreams in spite of that, "Personal Wisdom" is a useful and highly inspirational resource.

Everyone is smiling and having fun, giving no insight to the darker secrets hidden beneath.
"Murder at Cuyamaca Beach" is a tale of California's central coast and the hidden rot that lies in
Cuyamaca Beach. Prosperous up front, the people of the towns life begin to collapse on them, as
author Sue McGinty spins a riveting tale of intrigue. "Murder at Cuyamaca Beach" is an exciting
read that will prove hard to put down.

Freedom is something that has to be defended by those who would harm it. "Redeeming Liberty"
is a thriller from Diane and David Munson as a woman is taken by African Slave-Traders and
parole officer Dawn Ahern seems charged with finding what happened and bringing justice to
those responsible. Brining allies in FBI and CIA agents, she soon finds that it isn't the fate of a
single woman on the line, it may be the fate of us all. "Redeeming Liberty" is a fun and enticing
read, very highly recommended.

Being alone is quite the terrifying nightmare for many people. "Static Mayhem" tells the story of
Harrison Cody, who is stranded alone in a world where humanity has vanished. With only a
voice on the radio leading him to believe that there is anyone out there still alive, he embarks on
an epic journey for some form of contact. "Static Mayhem" is a fascinating and fun take on the
last man on earth concept.

There is nothing wrong with wanting the most out of life, but such wants can be hard to attain.
"Search Me" is the story of Emily Johnson and her drive to have her ideal life. From love, to
friendship, to a wonderful career, she soon learns that wanting it all is a lot to ask for and she
questions whether she can work for it. A read that will resonate well with many readers who are
burdened with life, "Search Me" is a powerful and very solidly recommended read.

A culturally protected site, or something more? "The Emperor's Tomb" is a thriller following
Justice Department Operative Cotton Malone as he investigates the tomb of China's first emperor
as it has importance to the woman he owes his life to, Cassiopeia Vitt who is being blackmailed.
To find some semblance of the truth, Malone is put against ancient culture and those who protect
it in order to find the secrets of Emperor Chin's tomb. "The Emperor's Tomb" is an exciting
thriller that won't be easily put down.

To see into the soul is a gift that seems to be a curse. "Return the Heart" tells the tale of Lilly
Paige, a seventeen year old girl who can peer into the hearts of those around her, something that
has proven more troublesome to her than useful. Seeking to learn more about her talents, she
finds that there are those who wish to use her and exploit her to their own gains. "Return the
Heart" is a riveting tale about the soul and what it does to those around you.

In the far flung future, the human experience is a much different one indeed. "Dancing with
Eternity" is a science fiction novel set in the fortieth century and following the misadventures and
failures of Mohandas in an otherwise more perfect universe. Humorous and thoughtful, "Dancing
with Eternity" may prove a fun read for science fiction fans with a strong interest in deep space
travel and other elements of the far flung future.

The world has changed, but Appalachia still has its traditional charm. "Degrees of Elevation:
Short Stories of Contemporary Appalachia" is a collection of short stories edited by Charles
Dodd White & Page Seay, as they bring readers an assortment of stories that present the
Appalachian brand of Americana through the eyes of many different writers. Poignant and
intriguing work sure to offer much food for thought, "Degrees of Elevation" is a recommended
and excellent collection.

Through the annals of time, some souls continue to clash and interact. "Souls on the Wind" tells the story of several souls throughout history. A thriller with a unique phenomena investigating various metaphysical concepts and the theory of past lives. With plenty to ponder and think about, "Souls on the Wind" is a unique read, very highly recommended.

A biological attack is unseen, and by virtue, completely terrifying. "Labyrinth of Terror" tells the
story of the King's College Hospital in London and the biological attack that has infected
numerous post-op patients and seems to spread through the culture. Racing to find a cure and
find who is responsible, two biologists and a special agent must race against the clock.
"Labyrinth of Terror" is a fine and solidly recommended read, not to be missed.

Some things are terrible things to carry on the conscience for decades. "A Homeless Man's
Burden" is the story of penniless and dying Sam Hostick as he reveals evidence that may bring
justice to a long standing cold case surrounding the death of a nine year old girl. Shane Coleman
takes this evidence and carries to now dead Sam's words in order to find justice years later. A
riveting thriller that will keep the pages turning, "A Homeless Man's Burden" is not to be
overlooked.

In your father's shadow, it's a lot to ask to stand behind it uniquely. "The Legend's Son: THe The
Ultra-Competitive World of Alabama Football" is the story of Northern boy Pat Murphy as he
travels to the deep south of America and finds he may as well be across the world. Fascinated by
the spirit and pride of local sports, he follows a local legend's son into his own game. A novel of
the South's passion, "The Legend's Son" is a fascinating and highly recommended read.

Secrets can kill. "Parallel Lies" tells the story of Yana Ivanova, a big Hollywood star with many
things in the closet, including herself. When someone learns that her personal assistant is more
than just a friend to her, she is dragged into a plot that is boiling with murder, blackmail, and
trying to keep the truth under wraps for her career. A riveting thriller, "Parallel Lies" is a fun read
for anyone, although it is aimed at Gay and Lesbian readers.

Having a pirate for a father leads to more harm than good. "The Pirate's Bastard" is an
adventurous tale following Edward Marshall as he's dragged into his father's trade by Ignatious
Pell, a friend of his father and has plenty of blackmail to counter Edward's protests. A fun story
of treasure hunting and the notoriety of the father, "The Pirate's Bastard" is a fine addition to any
historical fiction collection.

Magic can lurk where you least expect it. "The Two Sisters' Cafe" tells of fifties cafe with an unusual place in their own small town of Willow Creek. Alma and Vannie May run this cafe and it serves as the centerpiece for a series of unusual events in what authors Elena Yates Eulo & Samantha Harper Macy spin into what they call an adult faerie tale that changes the lives of their patrons. "The Two Sisters' Cafe" is a thoughtful and thought provoking read, very highly recommended.

Transplanted into a new world, it can prove to be quite the learning experience and nothing like one expects. "Van Diemen at 17" follows Kara Jagger, a girl on a year long exchange to Australian in the 1980s. At first, she thinks it'll change her life for the better, but she soon learns that it isn't quite as simple as she hoped. "Van Diemen at 17" is a unique coming of age novel with many creative and thoughtful twists.

It's hard enough to deal with monsters when they aren't actually monsters. "The Vampire
Hunters" tells the story of Drake Matthews and Alison Monroe as they find their usual pursuit of
serial killers and other scum of the earth brings them into a war of the undead that has raged over
Washington D.C. Two street smart cops against a legion of Vampires isn't fair, but it makes "The
Vampire Hunters" very entertaining reading.

When it turns children against parents, the Drug war may have gone too far. "Witchgrass" tells
the story of a rural Maine family that is facing a crisis as a daughter in a DARE class is sent to
spy on her parents. A novel with a strong pro-Marijuana sentiment, "Witchgrass" brings up some
fascinating points and makes for an intriguing read.

Love can drive you further than anything else. "Angels Carry the Sun" is a novel from Phoebe
Wilcox as her protagonist Flora McDermott finds love. Driven by these new found feeling, she
assaults her desire with love notes and poetry, driven to win his heart. A story of coming to terms
with reality and coming of age, "Angels Carry the Sun" is a thoughtful read and will be hard to
put down.

The colonial times are much different from the modern place of Concord, Massachusetts. "At the
Concord of the Rivers" tells the story of Abigail who finds herself thrown back nearly four
hundred years in history. A whole different world, Abigail's state in the world finds her own
beliefs and customs vastly different form that of puritan society. Finding love that pushes the
accepted place of women in society even further, "At the Concord of the Rivers" is a thoughtful
piece of historical fiction, highly recommended.

What lies beyond leaves us ask many questions. The answers we get may have not been what we
were seeking. "God Took His Coffee Black" is a humorous novel following Jerry as he shares
coffee with God and a few other individuals from the great beyond. A humorous tale of what's
waiting for us after it all and how it may not be what we expect, "God Took His Coffee Black" is
a read that will be hard to ignore.

Small town America of years past is another planet compared to today. "The Wind Came
Running" is a novel from Marianne Gage who uses her characters and settings to paint the
romanticized parts these time while bringing ahead the demons that should not be forgotten.
Thoughtful and fascinating writing, "The Wind Came Running" is a work of historical fiction
that will prove very hard to put down easily.

Einstein is ingrained into our culture as a synonym for phenomenal intellect. "Einstein's Tears: A
Touch of Genius" is a collection of short stories from Joseph Prindle focusing on genius and how
it affects our world, through the story of fictional aspects of Einstein's impact and influence
through his belongings and the bend of space and time. "Einstein's Tears" is an excellent pick
with plenty to think about, very highly recommended for short fiction collections.

A ratty old treasure map is for more than just some old treasure. "The Legends of the Lake on the
Mountain" follows young teenager John A. MacDonald as he is given an old treasure map and
finds it leads him to a cursed lake and soon discovers it's not just about where the map leads; it's
about finding the truth, or his family is in for more than disappointment. "The Legends of the
Lake on the Mountain" is an exciting pick for younger readers, highly recommended.

It's deadly when you're a cop and you fall for your suspect. "Silent Partner" is a riveting crime
drama as K9 cop Jack Davis finds a dead woman, and her sister is the prime suspect. With lots of
red tape, Jack finds himself finding Megan, the suspect, to be more than a hardened criminal and
with a deeper, darker secret. When someone seems to be pulling the strings behind it all, finding
the truth will prove quite difficult. "Silent Partner" is highly riveting and full of nonstop
action.

What you create long ago may still need your help years later. "Blue" is a novel following the
coming of age of Becky, who must face what her childhood left behind in the fantasy world she
created with her father. Miea, queen of the abandoned fantasy land, is burdened with a world that
may collapse. A unique story with plenty to ponder and excite, "Blue" will prove moving and
very hard to put down.

Short science fiction is a small bite of what could be. "The Best of Talebones" is a collection of
the best short stories to be published in 'Talebones' magazine over its past 39 issues. With a wide
array of authors and topics, there is sure to be something to intrigue and entertain any science
fiction fan, and makes for a fascinating and very highly recommended anthology. "The Best of
Talebones" deserves a place in any community library fiction collection.

Many young girls have a thing for horses. But these love and charm doesn't extend to actually
wanting to be a horse. "The Trouble with Being a Horse" is a novel following young Olivia as in
her rebellion against her parents, she rides horses against their will and finds herself a new
member of the equine species. Her unusual problem assaults her with plenty of new challenges in
trying to connect with her life. Thoughtful, a coming of age story with a twist, "The Trouble with
Being a Horse" is a top pick for younger readers and horse lovers.

Full of riches and adventure, the Wild West is a nice place to visit, but you wouldn't want to live
there. "Silverton Gold" is another fun western adventure from Jon Hovis, exploring his favored
genre. In the 1890s, government agents face off against Outlaws in Colorado in a last grab for
high riches before the turn of the century. "Silverton Gold" is an exciting and very hard to put
down read, recommended.

Human trafficking is a vile thing that still occurs to this day. "Various Men Who Knew Us as
Girls" follows protagonist Hester Smith as she faces her past as she works with law enforcement
against an illegal sex trade cartel. Through her own crusade, she faced with the regrets of her past
and what could have been, trying to come to terms with her own insecurities. "Various Men Who
Knew Us as Girls" is a thoughtful and fascinating read, very highly recommended.

You can't ignore your past forever. "Hitching to Nirvana" tells of the midlife crisis of Adrianne,
coping with the lies and past she left behind. When it begins to catch up with her, she realizes she
must deal with what she's been running from for so long to move forward. A web of sex and
drugs and the home she left behind, "Hitching to Nirvana" is an excellent read and very solidly
recommended, not to be missed.

A simple dispute can turn bloody with the right nudging. "Murder in the Stacks" is another entry
into Mary Clay's DAFFODILS series, following a trio of middle-aged women celebrating their
freedom from men they stayed with for far too long. When they go to the Floridian town of New
Smyrna, a debate of its founding day versus St. Augustine flares up. As the DAFFODILS soon
find, it may be up to them to solve this at first harmless debate which has spiraled out to the
furthest thing from it. "Murder in the Stacks" is a fun read that should prove very difficult to put
down.

Who says humans should monopolize putting on goofy costumes and getting free candy? "The
Adventures of the Poodle Posse: Creepy Tails" is a combination story and activity book from
Chrysa Smith. Telling first a fun and story of adventurous poodles and the event of Halloween,
also contained is a series of activities surrounding the characters and the story of the book.
Enhanced with simple yet charming artwork from Pat Achilles, "The Adventures of the Poodle
Posse" is an excellent pick for any younger reader.

No one likes being kept as an attraction. "The Traveling Salesman's Darktime Tales: The
Innkeeper's Vampire" is another entry in Scott Swift's original series following an unnamed
traveling salesman in his journeys. When he meets an innkeeper who keeps a vampire as an
attraction, he finds the innkeeper's daughter has been kidnapped by the vampire's peers and sees
that peaceful resolution may not be possible. "The Innkeeper's Vampire" is a fascinating read
with plenty of original thought and concept, highly recommended.

With a bullet turned non-fatal, suddenly America becomes a different place. "The Memoirs of
John F. Kennedy" is a work of alternative history, proposing an America where Kennedy
survived the assassination, and won a second term. Told in the style of memoirs, Donald James
Lawn explores how he feels America would be a different place had Kennedy remained at the
helm. "The Memoirs of John F. Kennedy" is a fascinating and original work, very highly
recommended.

Paris seems like the most romantic thing in the world, until you live there. "Encounters in Paris"
is a collection of short stories from Carolyn Moncel and her protagonist Ellery Roulet, a nearing
middle age woman working in Paris and finding out while there is love, there is also everything
you hate about love. A fun read that blends plenty of romance, "Encounters in Paris" is quite the
pick, recommended.

From the big city life to preacher's wife. "To Cook a Squirrel" tells the story of Babs and Harry,
who are drawn from San Francisco to life in rural Wisconsin. A funny and entertaining novel
with an assortment of unique characters and situations, author Betty Rae McCormack makes "To
Cook a Squirrel" well worth picking up for general fiction readers looking for a bit of Wisconsin
flavor.

The Business Shelf

It's easy to stir interest; it's closing the deal that is the challenge. "42 Rules to Turn Prospects Into
Customers: To Turn Prospects into Customers" is a guide to better understanding how to find
your target audience, get them interested in your product, and turn that interest into profit. With
plenty of tips and tricks for getting to the bottom line, Meridith Elliot Powell gives a very
powerful resource. "42 Rules to Turn Prospects Into Customers" is something to be considered to
anyone's business who requires landing the sale to be successful.

It's not all about the big bucks; the small bucks help a good deal too. "Complementary Income:
Unlock a World of Prosperity Through Passive Income" is a guide to gaining a little money on
the side, which won't be one's primary source of income but still prove to help one's comfort
level in gaining money. Drawing on the authors own varied work, "Complementary Income" is a
thoughtful read that should be considered for anyone who likes having a financial safety net.

Luck can go bad. Very bad. But skill is something that's not down to the roll of a dice. "Better
Good than Lucky: How Savvy Investors Create Fortune with the Risk-Reward Ratio" is a guide
to finding the ability to be an agile business person, using one's mind to find the ventures that
will make you money and how to avoid the obvious failures. With plenty of stocks tips that
encourages keeping a varied portfolio, understanding a business's future, and more, "Better Good
Than Lucky" is an ideal read for anyone who wants to treat the market as an informed decision,
rather than a fancy slot machine.

The Christian Studies Shelf

The life of mission is the life of the inspired. "Mr. Awana: Sixty-Plus Years of Changing the
World for Christ" looks at the life of Art Rorheim, a co-founder of the Awana Church system.
Following his life of sixty years for ministry and promoting Christianity world wide, his story is
one of faith and drive to change the world for the better. "Mr. Awana" is an insightful piece of
Christian history, sure to inspire others to pursue their own ministry in their lives.

It's easy for the house of God to lose sight of God. "Experiencing God's Love in Church" is a
guide for church leaders to make sure that God's love is eminent in the church and looks to
remain there even in tougher times. Urging readers to remember the values of the Bible, Tom
Blackaby gives a thoughtful read for church leaders, making "Experiencing God's Love in
Church" a thoughtful and inspirational pick for those who feel their church has lost sight of
God.

To remember God is an important aspect of those devoted to Christ. "Hymns & Lamentations" is
a thoughtful collection of writings over the cruelty of life and how faith can help you endure the
worst of it all. For those looking for the strength of life to face the worst of it, "Hymns &
Lamentations" is a choice pick for Christian readers.

In the frenzy of Christmas and shopping, many of us may forget the very origins of the holiday.
"Unwrapping His Presence" is a Christian inspirational from Chris Maxwell as he urges readers
to remember that through the Holiday season, Christ can be with them and make this wonderful
time of year all the more special. For those who feel Jesus may abandon them during these also
stressful times, "Unwrapping His Presence" may be the reassurance they need.

Keeping one's faith in today's world may prove quite difficult. "Because, I Think, I Believe: A
Personal Christian Manifesto" is a guide for Christians who want to keep their faith in today's
assault of the 'isms' as Donald R. Wilson terms them. Encouraging Christians to keep their
beliefs strong and remember God in these times of many conflicting ideas, "Because, I Think, I
Believe" is a choice pick for Christian readers seeking to keep their faith strong.

Simple wisdom can help one go so very far in their life. "Letters to My Christian Friends, Darryl,
and Others: Both Christians and Non-Christians Alike" is a collection of musings and wisdom
from Millet Harrison, Jr., as he brings his own thoughts drawn from scripture and other sources
to provide his own taste of wisdom that is unique in the world. "Letters to My Christian Friends,
Darryl, and Others" is inspirational and recommended reading.

There is a reason they are called Abrahamic religions. "Friend of God: The Legacy of Abraham,
Man of Faith" is a sort of biography of Abraham, the man who has been deemed by many as the
most important character of the Old Testament. Facing constant challenges from God, Abraham
met them in subservience to the Lord, Pastor Ray Stedman states that each event in his life sheds
light on a Christian principle. "Friend of God" is a fascinating and spiritual look at the most
important mortal figure in the Old Testament.

Where does the rest of the animal kingdom sit in the kingdom of God? "The Animals' Bible" seeks to ask the Bible questions about the status of animals in God's plan. From the existence of a non-human soul to if exploiting animals for our own gain is a sin, Ian A. Stuart asks a wide array of questions and offers much thought in answers for those who wonder about their furry friends. Scholarly and insightful, "The Animals' Bible" is a collection that shouldn't be overlooked.

Faith is a never ending journey for some. "The Sacred Journey" is a driven read from Chris
Surber as he preaches on the journey with Christ that will all take in our lives. With simple
wisdom and plenty of inspiration, Surer's work is sure to inspire many readers to keep Christ in
mind in the journey of their lives. "The Sacred Journey" is a fine pick, and very highly
recommended for Christian readers.

The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

No one is perfect, and realizing this is the first step in finding that second opportunity in life.
"Passage to Nirvana: A Survivor's Zen Voyage: Reflections on Loss, Discovery, Healing &
Hope" is an inspirational and spiritual read from Lee Carlson. Recovering from a traumatic brain
injury, he found new joy in life and found his own passage to joy in life through many arts of
Zen. Thoughtful and riveting reading, "Passage to Nirvana" is an enlightening and educational read
that shouldn't be overlooked for those looking for their own second chances.

Your imagination is more than your mind running free, as here is more divine inspiration in there
than most know. "Imagine God" is an inspirational read from H. Eric Fearman as he presents a
simple and thoughtful premise on the role of God in our imagination, stating that one's
imagination can drive one to greater heights and spirituality if fully embraced. "Imagine God" is
an excellent and driven read with a unique and powerful message.

Understanding yourself is key to taking control of one's own life. "One...: Embracing Life and
Illuminating Your Spirit" is a spirituality and self-improvement book as Dr. Kimble Greene
encourages readers to find their own spirit and drive their lives to push themselves further
stronger in their lives to get more out of their lives. From coping with loss and depression to
driving oneself to greater successes, "One..." is a powerful read that shouldn't be overlooked for
many spiritual readers.

With a massive glut of information in the modern era, it's all too easy to lose oneself. "Finding Personal Truth: In the Too Much Information Age" is a philosophy and spirituality guide from Steven Paglierani where he hopes to help readers remember what is important to them in today's world. Stating that many people's minds are no longer whole, Paglierani provides much wisdom and much thought with his writing and the role of the spirit in today's shifting and chaotic world. "Finding Personal Truth" is a fine read with much to teach in everyone's own search for meaning in a world that at times feels meaningless.

Ministry can bring a whole new dimension to one's life. "The Modern Confessions of Saint
August Stine" is a memoir of the anonymous August Stine as he details his own journey through
faith and depression to come up with his own unique world view. A fascinating read with much
to think about, "The Modern Confessions of Saint August Stine" is quite the read and very highly
recommended.

The Humor Shelf

Shopping around for where you spend eternity can prove quite overwhelming. "Dirk Quigby's
Guide to the Afterlife: All You Need to Know to Choose the Right Heaven" is a humorous
analysis of the world's religions with a focus on the afterlife. Tying the analysis together with a
quirky and offbeat novel, the laughs roll together well with plenty of substance. "Dirk Quigby's
Guide to the Afterlife" is excellently composed and a read that is fun and very hard to
set down.

The Literary Shelf

When the world hits us with its nastiest punch, it's too easy to fall back into the simple comforts
of life. "Gin, Chittlins, and Blessings" is a collection of prose and poetry from Rava Shelyn,
reflecting on her own vices of comfort and why they can't always be relied on in tough times.
Focusing on the woes of the modern African American, "Gin, Chittlins, and Blessings" is a read
that has plenty to teach, highly recommended. "A Winter Poem": Frozen fingers/snotty dar'
noises/Handed down coats/Childhood giggles in the snow.

Holden Caulfield is a literary icon of a character, the youth disaffected with the world. "A
Reader's Companion to J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye" is a guide to fully understanding
this classic novel and why it has gained fame today. On top of exploring the book, many theories
and ideas about the work are explored, such as the fate of Holden after the events of the book and
a greater eye on his familial relations. "A Reader's Companion to J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in
the Rye" is for fans and those opening the book for the first time, highly recommended.

The Arthurian legends are not about Arthur alone. "Ambrosius Aureliani" tells the story of King
Arthur's uncle who has his own epic of the British isles to tell, of his own struggles for justice.
For those with a love for fantasy and Arthurian lore, "Ambrosius Aureliani" is certainly a choice
pick with plenty to entire readers to read further.

The Self-Help Shelf

How do you want your life story to go? "Choose Your Story, Choose Your Life" is an
inspirational book from Dean Erickson stating that the best way to get the most out of one's life is
to reflect on how you would like your life story to go and use that as a goal to make that happen.
With wit and wisdom, "Choose Your Story, Choose Your Life" is an uplifting and moving read,
recommended.

You control your own destiny; it's just a matter of getting in the right mindset. "Empowerment: A
Way of Life" is a guide to driving oneself and shaping one's world so that you can get the job
done in business in a way that makes both you and your customers happy with their purchase and
you with your world. Driven and thoughtful with much sage business advice, "Empowerment" is
a fine and highly recommended read, not to be missed by anyone who wants the power to push
themselves further.

If you rush into something thoughtlessly, you're setting yourself up to crash spectacularly. "Flight
Plan: Your Mission to Become a Man" is an inspirational guide for boys on the long journey to
manhood. With Christian thought and virtue, Lee Burns and Braxton Brady emphasize the
importance of good decision making, being responsible individuals avoiding the demons that pull
you from your path, and remembering the faith. "Flight Plan" is a fine gift for any young
Christian on that road to manhood.

A bit of happiness goes a long way. "It's All Part of the Dance: Finding Happiness in an Upside
Down World" is a guide for dealing with an unkind world and still finding those pieces of
pleasure in one's life. These pits of happiness relax you, make you more approachable, and help
you live your life with the ease and joy of something greater. Simple and profound wisdom, "It's
All Part of the Dance" is a choice and very highly recommended read.

The Biography Shelf

As life begins to strike with age, some women take it better than others. "Life Continues: Facing
the Challenges of MS, Menopause, and Midlife with Hope, Courage, and Humor" is a memoir
from Carmen Ambrosio who started life in the Virgin Islands and faces the full brunt of age in
the much less tropical Midwest. "Life Continues" has a simple and powerful message for other
aging women, very highly recommended.

Anxiety can shut one down completely in some situations. "If Seen... My Journey Living with
Anxiety"is a novel from Karla Yazzolino drawn from her own life long experience with anxiety
and the challenges that come along with it. Inspiring strength in readers to face their own
anxieties, "If Seen... My Journey Living with Anxiety" is a thoughtful and recommended
read.

Gardens are more than just a plot of plants. "Mentors in the Garden of Life" is a gardening
memoir from Colleen Plimpton who states how her garden formed a connection with her life and
taught her much about herself and her world through her work. Blending humor and tragedy,
"Mentors in the Garden of Life" is a fun read with plenty to teach would-be gardeners about the
joys they do not yet know.

There is much finite in the world, but our lives are what we so often forget. "Greening My Life" is a memoir from David Gottfried, who is known for his environmental contributions to making businesses and buildings more environmentally friendly. But after a life of this, he states he turned his conservation efforts to himself, as he found himself unhappy with his life. He tells his story of using the green principles to his own life, and hopes these ideas will resonate with other readers as well. "Greening My Life" is a thoughtful read with a unique, excellent method to approach one's life.

The American dream is not yet dead. "Ticket to Ride: The Promise of America" tells the
remarkable story of Don Hussey as he clawed to the top of his world and made something of
himself, overcoming the insurmountable odds that laid before him in his journey to becoming a
success business man and politician. Thoughtful, driven, and inspiring, "Ticket to Ride" is a fine
addition to biography collections.

Cancer is the toughest opponent many will ever face. Benjamin Rubenstein not only faced it
down, he won the rematch. "Twice: How I Became a Cancer Slaying Super Man Before I Turned
21" is an uplifting memoir with a grand dose of humor. Hoping to have retired from his cancer
slaying career, he faced down testicular cancer and hopes his stories will help readers face down
their own illnesses and problems with life. Sure to entertain from the writer of a blog entitled 'I
Still Got Both My Nuts', "Twice" is not your usual cancer memoir and is not to be missed.

The simple right to have your union with the person you love recognized is a struggle many face
today. "A Passionate Engagement" is a memoir from Ken Harvey, focusing on the struggles of
the gay community. Reflecting on growing up as a gay child in the 1960s and 1970s, and the
battle for the right to marry in the modern day, his memoir speaks clearly on the plight of the
modern homosexual. "A Passionate Engagement" is a fine addition to any Gay studies or memoir
collection.

What drives a mother to kill her own child? "Sister of Silence" is Daleen Berry's own thought
and investigation into teenage mothers and the circumstances that lead them into the rough
pressure of murder or taking their own lives as well. Facing her own tragedy, she reflects on what
leads to this, and looks at other cases as well as a journalist. "Sister of Silence" is an intriguing
look at tragedy and what it means to the woman and her family.

Sports are life for some people. "A Boy and His Balls" is a humorous memoir from Chuck
Wanninger as he reflects on growing up in a world where everyone wanted him to be the next
ball player, and failing at that, he become a sports journalist and then some. A fun memoir with a
look at the place sports has in our culture, "A Boy and His Balls" is a strong and solidly
recommended read.

Brutality's history is best heard from the victims themselves. "The Visiting Suit" tells the stories
of Xiaoda Xiao and the harshness of his history in the forced labor camps under the regime of
Mao Zedung. A story of the Chinese and humanity's determination to live through it all and keep
the human qualities of spirit, humor, and compassion above all intact, "The Visiting Suit" is a
thoughtful piece of history and fine addition to any historical memoir collection about one of the
twentieth century's great atrocities.

The Photography Shelf

Value is pushing a purchase to its limits. "Photographer's Guide to the Panasonic Lumix LX5:
Getting to Most From Panasonic's Advanced Digital Camera" is a guide to using this compact
camera to above and beyond what most people will ever use it for. Detailing the camera's lesser
known abilities dealing with motion, advanced techniques, and much more, Alexander White
does well in educating readers with this resource. "Photographer's Guide to Panasonic Lumix
LX5" is something to have on hand for any Lumix enthusiast.

Birds have a natural charm that can't be seen much in the world. "Ethan Egret's Family Album:
With Tips for Photographing Wild Birds" is a guide for those who have a certain fondness for
our feather friends as Linda Jump gives a guide for young would be nature photographers to
capture their favorite animals with film. Thoughtful and intriguing reading, "Ethan Egret's Family
Album" is a choice read and very highly recommended.

The Health/Medicine Shelf

Health is more than one aspect of good practice. "Whole Health Healing: The Budget-Friendly
Natural Wellness Bible for All Ages" is a health guide for readers explaining what is needed for
greater overall health that applies for anyone trying to attain a healthier body and self, and wants
to help their families attain it as well. With plenty of tips to keeping good health and how to
avoid the misleading traps they are led into, "Whole Health Healing" is a valuable read for
parents who want to keep their family healthy and strong.

Citrus has a grand assortment of health benefits and many don't know how to get the most of out
of it. "Citrus: How to Grow and Use Citrus Fruits, Flowers, and Foliage" is a guide to getting the
most out of citrus and its many uses, not just health, that citrus can have for the modern home.
Monica Moran Brandies discusses how to grow citrus in one's own home as well as how to select
store bought versions. "Citrus" is a very useful resource and highly recommended.

Caffeine is a drug, and many people don't entirely realize this. "Caffeine Makes Me Bleed (And
How It Can Poison You, Too!)" is a warning against the dangers of caffeine and how years of use
led to many problems in her health. Stating what caffeine can do to people and how to try to
work it out of your life, she gives plenty of reason to work towards a caffeine free life. "Caffeine
Makes Me Bleed" is a thoughtful read for those who want to know what caffeine truly is.

It's your body, and what happens to it is up to you. "Your Health is Your Responsibility: Your
Personal Health Reforms" is a guide to improving one's own health directly through turning one's
life around and living a much healthier lifestyle that goes above and beyond what many people
think is enough to change from their unhealthy ways. "Your Health is Your Responsibility" is a
thoughtful and highly driven read, not to be missed by any who want to set themselves on the
road to good health.

The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

When the internet is ingrained with human consciousness, a whole new frontier is met. "2031:
The Singularity Pogrom" tells of a future where human consciousness is about to be merged with
artificial intelligence. But the next step of evolution comes with it, and a young child may take
the merge even further to barely resembling humanity. "2031" is a fascinating work of science
fiction with plenty of unique concepts.

The fairy tale is a genre that will never truly go away. "Spark the Stone Man" is a collection of
short fables and children's stories from Asya Pekurovskaya who provides an intriguing twist on
many concepts of fantasy with his own Lemon Drop Valley, with his own brand of magic and
wonder. With unique and descriptive illustrations from Olga Titova, "Spark the Stone Man" is a
fine collection for younger readers.

The Education Shelf

Tests are meant to gauge someone, and understanding them is key to success. "Get Smart About Tests: The Essential Parent and Teacher's Guide to Understanding Children's Educational and Psychological Testing" discusses and analyzes tests and what they mean on the bigger picture. Analytical and thoughtful coverage of how to read test scores, the meaning of IQ, society's impact and the different breeds of intelligence, "Get Smart About Tests" is recommended for anyone or any parent who is facing anxiety with tests and wants to be prepared through understanding.

The English language is a large and diverse language with history in the very words themselves. "Words' Worth's Vocabulary Verse" is a collection of rich words with plenty to ponder from Susan Jones as she offers many big words, how to use them, and their history, detailing fifty two words in total. A fun and enticing way to expand one's vocabulary, "Words' Worth's Vocabulary Verse" is an excellent collection and is very highly recommended.

A little boost goes a long way with the energy of youth. "Brain Snacks for Teens on the Go!" is a guide for planting the seeds of success in one's life with simple and thoughtful ideas for teens to do to get them on the fast track for better success in life, be in the avenue of health, career, education, or many other aspects. "Brain Snacks" is an insightful pick, and a good resource for teenage readers with high hopes for themselves.

The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

A dog can bring so much to life. "Jetta's Journey: My Life as a Service Dog" is a memoir told
from the perspective of the dog of author Denise Solter's, reflecting on what her dog Jetta has
done for her in turning her life around. Touching and poignant, "Jetta's Journey" is a story that
will bring warmth to any dog lover.

For some dogs, being alone is a terrifying prospect. "Don't Leave Me!: Step-by-Step Help for
Your Dog's Separation Anxiety" is a guide for pet owners who want to help their dogs not freak
out when they are left alone for a few hours or day. From nutrition to training and other therapies,
Nicole Wilde will teacher dog lovers what they need to know to keep that bond strong but not so
much it cripples your dog. "Don't Leave Me!" is an excellent guide, very highly
recommended.

The Poetry Shelf

Sport is not a physical excursion alone, as it is a tribute to the morality of our waning bodies
"Athletes" is a collection of poetry form Kirby Congdon, focusing on the fragility of the human
form, with a healthy dose of spirituality. "Athletes" is an excellent read and pick, highly
recommended. "Motorcyclist": The intoxicating stench of gas/mixes with the body's sweat/and
the smell of musk./Their leather torsos,/riding iron bulls,/intimate and crouched,/intense in the
lover's act,/copulate with their hot machines./Blood and oil are one./They eat and digest
death.

Home is such an illusion for many people. "The Homelessness of Self" is a collection of musings
from Susan Terris on the status of being lost and trying to find ourselves in this world where it's
easy to forget. With profound simplicity and drawing verse, "The Homelessness of Self" is a
choice pick for many poetry collections. "Why You Envy the Swallow": A swallow touches both
sky and branch,/but his life is hard to piece//against the puzzle of yours. The scissor/of his wing
flaunts//his freedom. The brush of his feather/recalls an old dream where doors//open and behind
each one: anticipation/of an eager mouth, of a safe nest.

No one likes having their heart broken, but what emerges is not a total loss. "The Utility of Heart
Break" is a collection of poetry from Charles Reynard with a simple lesson of what we learn
from failed love. With simple and quick verse, "The Utility of Heart Break" is a charming
chapbook. "Driving William": He came from his jungle island/to this coastal prairie. He told/the
rapt room poetry came/as inked markings of grief,//their most-breath-spaced vessels,/vowel
sounds. I tested: dull/pain of a short a, Uhhh:/the keening of long e.

Through the worst of it all, family can keep your head above water. "Cotton" is a collection of
poetry from Derrick Harriell focusing on the black family in middle America and the challenges
that affect us all, and the challenges of the African American in the mid-west. Poignant and
driven, "Cotton" is a fine and very highly recommended read. "The Streetlight Has Eyes in the
Back of His Head": I stand on shoulders,/record the carnage each time/a young brother dies.

Not caring needs a care all of its own. "The Really Funny Thing About Apathy" is a collection of
poetry from Chelsea Martin who seeks to attack poetry and life with her own style of lethargy
and boredom, to create something that is anything but. "The Really Funny Thing About Apathy"
is quite the read, and very highly recommended.

You don't need to be a millionaire to enjoy the best of life. "Gigs" is a collection of poetry
focusing on the simpler things and how to enjoy them. Davis speaks plainly yet beautifully, and
makes "Gigs" a fine pick. "Legend": when day condenses/I hear your lips/flatten and spring/like a
slinky./Sing my name and let me/watch you knot and unknot your hair./Take me to the
delphinium leaves/raging green across your eyes/and breathe into me./My pores are open/like
request lines on oldies radio.

The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

A shifting of power without blood, something almost unheard of in history. "The Velvet
Oratorio" is a play set on this historic event in 1989 Czechoslovakia, following a cast of
characters as they deal with this shift of time. Praised throughout, this play may prove an
excellent addition to any company's roster. "The Velvet Oratorio" is an excellent pick for theatre
collections and for theatre fans.

The Needlecraft Shelf

Quilting is a wonderful way to express oneself and create a bond with ancestry. "1. 6 Million
African American Quilters: Survey, Sites, and a Half-Dozen Art Quilt Blocks" is a book filled
with quilting ideas for African American quilters who want to play homage to their heritage and
family with this wide assortment of ideas. A fine addition to any crafts of black studies
collection, "1.6 Million African American Quilters" is a fine pick and very highly
recommended.

The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Our soul is eternal yet our body is not, so what lies beyond? "Planetary Influences & Sojourns" is
a reprinting of one of Edgar Cayce's most famous works, elaborating on the role of the soul in the
bigger picture, that everyone's soul resonates stronger in the celestial picture than in our short
mortal time. A powerful read for spiritual meta-physicists, "Planetary Influences & Sojourns" is
quite the pick from one of the most famous and important to the concept.

Cultures create their own mythology to explain the unexplainable, and those stories bring them
together. "Superheroes Pagans & Deities: Evolution of the Eastern Mediterranean's Great Faiths"
is an analysis of culture and the supernatural, as Karl C. Hendrixsen gives readers a tour of the
many united cultures throughout our worlds history with a focus on the cradle of civilization.
Making many interesting points through the analysis, "Superheroes Pagans & Deities" is a fun
read, packed cover to cover with interesting trivia.

Understanding the planet is a key for understanding the self. "Planetary Transformation: A
Personal Guide to Embracing Planetary Change" is a metaphysical spirituality book as Imre
Vallyon as he encourages readers to find their own route to their transformational enlightenment,
stating that the rough times ahead can serve as quite the catalyst. "Planetary Transformation" is a
wise and solidly recommended read that shouldn't be overlooked by metaphysical readers.

Pushed out of life at age 2, Glen Just has had a long array of experiences with near death. "Autobiography of a Ghost" tells his story of how his mother used to smother him at a young age to control his behavior and how this once went too far and nearly killed him, but leading him to his first out of body experience. Ideal for students of spirituality and new age ideas, "Autobiography of a Ghost" should prove quite intriguing to metaphysical readers.

The Parenting Shelf

Drive is contagious. "Bring Out the Best in Your Child and Your Self" is a guide for promoting the best in your family and encouraging respect among all members as well as self respect. Stating that families should be about encouraging a more loving and understanding situation instead of one that is under constant struggle and stress, Ilene Val-Essen gives readers a very thoughtful collection of ideas to motivate oneself and spread that motivation to their family. "Bring Out the Best" is a fine and very highly recommended pick for any parent who feels their home lacks respect.

The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

With her own demons on her back, Dinah Harris is faced with another monumental task of
justice. "The Shadowed Mind" follows Harris as she searches for a new career after her departure
from the FBI. Faced with an underground world that is trying to push a new breed of eugenics
onto the world, she battles her own problems as she tries to take the worlds on her shoulders as
well. A riveting read that will prove very hard to put down, "The Shadowed Mind" is not a read
to be missed.

The Cookbook Shelf

There are many ways one can pursue greater health in their life. "Cooking on the Light Side:
Smart Recipes for Bright Skin and Vitality" is a cookbook of sorts to unlock greater health, by
using certain foods that promote certain skin health and more energy. With plenty of vegetarian
ideas for meals including soups, salads, and many other dishes that will be light and healthy and
go far in promoting those traits in the cook and those the serve. "Cooking on the Light Side" is
enhanced with plenty of full color photos and simple and easy to read instructions, perfect for the
blossoming health nut.

You don't need a fat wallet to enjoy the best wines of the world. "Billy's Best Bottles for Wines
For 2011" is a guide for the blossoming wine enthusiast and advisory for the next year for wine
lovers. Munnelly explains the finer details of enjoying wine and comes to readers with simple
wisdom and things to remember when looking for new flavors and picking a wine to go with the
meal. In the 2011 edition, he explains what to look out for in this coming year and what to dread.
"Billy's Best Bottles for Wines for 2011" is a must for any wine enthusiast who wants to get the
most out of their hobby.

The Criminology Shelf

What drives one police officer to kill another? "Suicide and Homicide-Suicide Among Police" is
a study of this phenomena. Analyzing suicide and why it seems to be more common in police
officers, and why some take other officers with them. With chapters discussing homicide and
what it means to the psyche, studies and history of police homicide and suicide, and what can be
done to prevent future occurrences as well as addressing modern problems. "Suicide and
Homicide-Suicide Among Police" is a fascinating read aimed at law enforcement professionals
and psychologists.

The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

The sense of self and knowing the self is something many take for granted. "Gaylord Phoenix" is a unique graphic novel with its own style as author and artist Edie Fake shows a tale of a creature called the Gaylord Phoenix, as he explores transgender identity and how those with this condition are faced with an unsureness of who they are, and the plague of not knowing this simple fact. "Gaylord Phoenix" is an artistic and thoughtful read, highly recommended gay graphic novel.

The Women's Studies Shelf

Nurturing one's child personally is something highly valued by many women. "Breastfeeding in
Combat Boots: A Survival Guide to Successful Breastfeeding While Serving in the Military" is a
guide for those women in uniform who want to breastfeed their children while on duty. Taking
pride as both a mother and a soldier, her wisdom will help many women in the field.
"Breastfeeding in Combat Boots" is a must for any soldier mom or soon to be soldier mom.

The Art Shelf

Art is a hard product to sell, so it can prove highly difficult to succeed. "Accelerating on the
Curves: The Artist's Roadmap to Success" is a guide to getting started on the successful road to
becoming a career artist. Drawn from Katherine T. Carter and others, she reflects on her own
career and seeks to inspire other artists to follow her path to doing what they love. From
exhibitions, making contacts, and basically getting started, Cater provides a must read for anyone
who wants to create to pay their bills. With empowerment for those times where there will be
failure and there will be failure, "Accelerating on the Curves" will prove a powerful and very
highly recommended read, not to be missed.

The Social Issues Shelf

Life in modern Afghanistan is not something many people currently understand fully.
"Afghanistan Journal: Selections from Registan.net" is a collection of correspondence from
Joshua Foust, a military analyst who presents many articles from Registan.net, granting a new
understanding of Afghanistan and the efforts of the United States and its allies to rebuild it.
Adding new perspective, "Afghanistan Journal" is a fine collection and is very highly
recommended for world issues collections. Also recommended from Just World Books, "A
Responsible End?: The United States and the Iraqi Transition 2005-2010" (9781935982036,
$23.95), focusing on the shift of power between America and Iraq, and "Gaza Mom: Palestine,
Politics, Parenting, and Everything In Between" (9781935982005, $24.95) with the opinions and
thoughts of a mother in one of the most tumultuous places in the world.

The Travel Shelf

All along the greatest river of America, there is plenty to see and embrace. "Driftless Area Travel
Guide" is a guide outlining all the sights and happenings that happen along this region, called
Driftless because it long avoided the glacial drift during the Ice Age. With communities and town
throughout, author Dean Klinkenberg equips readers with the knowledge they need to make the
most of their visit. "Driftless Area Travel Guide" is a must for any Mississippi traveler.